The 35-year-old underwent a workout with the team before the two sides agreed on a deal, the financial terms of which have not been disclosed.

Moss, who did not play last season, has enjoyed a spectacular and controversial career as one of the NFL's most potent deep threats.

He is tied for the second most receiving touchdowns in league history with 153 and will bring a proven presence to a 49ers' team that reached the NFC Championship last season despite lacking an explosive offence.

"We are pleased to add a player with Randy's wealth of experience to our receiving corps," Niners general manager Trent Baalke told the team's official website.

"Randy's productivity over the course of his career speaks for itself. We look forward to integrating him into our system."

Moss last played in 2010 when he was traded from the New England Patriots to Minnesota mid-season before being waived by the Vikings. Tennessee picked him up but Moss finished the season with career lows in receptions and receiving yards.